Simonson Detention is a privately owned earth dam located in Zumbro Falls, Minnesota, along the Zumbro River. Designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1967, this structure serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the area. With a dam height of 27 feet and a length of 408 feet, Simonson Detention has a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 700 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the MNDNR EWR, Simonson Detention is deemed to have a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment. The dam, with an uncontrolled spillway type, is inspected every 8 years, with the last assessment conducted in July 2013. Despite being a privately owned facility, state permitting, inspection, and enforcement regulations are in place, ensuring its compliance with safety standards. The risk assessment for Simonson Detention is moderate, reflecting the potential challenges and measures needed to manage any associated risks effectively.

Overall, Simonson Detention stands as a crucial flood risk reduction structure in Olmsted County, Minnesota, playing a vital role in protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding events. With its strategic location and design features, this earth dam continues to be a key asset in the region's water resource management efforts, demonstrating the importance of proactive infrastructure in addressing climate-related challenges.